Learn how tribes have used this plant to reduce pain for generations

Goodyera oblongifolia Raf., also known as the Western Rattlesnake Plantain, is a part of the Orchid Family, believe it or not. This perennial grows from rhizomes of a slim nature. They can grow to be about 18 inches at a maximum growth generally when it is flowering. The oblong to ovalish leaves tend to be a deep green in a rosette of basal with veins of white becoming densely sculpted, simple pattern that is well placed. In the months between July and August, small green to white flowers in one-sided densely spiked, hooded petal adorned a top.

The Western Rattlesnake Plantain can be found all throughout moist to dry forests that are well shaded, as well as moss filled areas. The main areas are the Central Sierra, northern California to Alaska, Utah, Arizona, eastern North America, the Rockies from New Mexico to Montana, and Mexico.

The Native Americans used the leaves to chew during childbirth to make it less painful and easier to handle for the women. A poultice of the leaves was used externally for sores and cuts. A wash was also used to help with the pain caused by stiff muscles from things such as sprinting long distances as well as canoeing for long periods of time or long distances.